Square Enix announces Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII

Coming out of all the Final Fantasy 25th Anniversary hullabaloo today, comes the announcement that I think most of us kind of knew was coming, that is another Final Fantasy XIII sequel. Not content to just name this Final Fantasy XIII-3, this follow-up in the Lightning saga falls under the moniker Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII.

No firm release date has been given, outside of 2013. The game will be released for Xbox 360 and PS3. In the meantime check out the full press release below, along with some concept art SE sent over.

SQUARE ENIX REVEALS EPIC CONCLUSION TO LIGHTNING’S SAGA

LIGHTNING RETURNS: FINAL FANTASY XIII Coming to
Xbox 360 and PlayStation®3 system in 2013

LOS ANGELES (Aug. 31, 2012) – Square Enix, Inc., the publisher of SQUARE ENIX® interactive entertainment products in the Americas, today unveiled the final chapter to Lightning’s saga at a fan-filled 25th anniversary event of the FINAL FANTASY® franchise. LIGHTNING RETURNS: FINAL FANTASY XIII, due out next year, incorporates a brand-new story, world, characters and an enhanced gameplay system.

The FINAL FANTASY XIII franchise has now shipped more than 9.6 million units worldwide. Production is underway, and the game will feature Lightning as a playable character and will allow players to experience an active and expansive environment like never before.